Skin Care During Radiation

Cancer diagnosis and treatment at West Cancer Center involves a team of experts in multiple specialties. This multidisciplinary, team-based approach provides the net comfort to our patients that they are going to receive the best care available, right here in Memphis.

Cancer diagnosis and treatment at West Cancer Center involves a team of experts in multiple specialties. This multidisciplinary, team-based approach provides the net comfort to our patients that they are going to receive the best care available, right here in Memphis.

After a few weeks of treatment you may notice changes in your skin. This happens because the beam of radiation has to pass through your skin. Your skin has become reddened, irritated, sunburned, tanned or very dry. The skin changes that take place according to the condition of your skin before treatments are started, the number of treatments given, the amount of radiation used and the area being treated. Some areas of the skin may be changes by radiation more than other areas such as the groin, under the arms and under the breasts. Your skin will need special care while you are having radiation treatment and after you have completed your treatments.

Aquaphor ointment is the preferred brand of skincare. It is available at larger convenience stores without a prescription. Apply it to the marked area after treatment and at bedtime, but not immediately before treatment.

We prefer that you do not wear deodorant or antiperspirant in the treatment area. If you must wear deodorant, an aluminum-free product would be okay to use abovethe line of treatment. If area gets irritated, discontinue.

Do not wash off the ink marks while bathing or showering until you are told to do so.

Wash the treatment area gently with lukewarm water and pat dry.

Wear loose fitting cotton clothing to prevent skin irritation. Undergarments should not be tight or binding if that area is being treated.

Do not scratch or rub the skin in the treatment area. If the skin becomes itchy you may use hydrocortisone or Benadryl cream.

If the skin being treated becomes red, blistered or weepy, be sure to tell your doctor or nurse.

Good nutrition is very important for your skin while you are being treated. For more information on proper nutrition during treatment, please click here.

After your treatments have ended you should continue to gently care for your skin until any irritated areas have disappeared.